Fall /Winter 2016

614 DORSEYVILLE ROAD PITTSBURGH, PA 15238 BULLETIN VOLUME 81, NO. 3

Your Online WITH AUDUBON! Holiday Shopping Our holiday tea programs fill up quickly, so register today! CAN SUPPORT ASWP AUDUBON NATURE STORE MEMBERS’ HOLIDAY SALE Your holiday shopping can benefit November 19 at Beechwood ASWP! Register, then shop online through smile.amazon.com and .5% of your purchases GIRLS & DOLLS HOLIDAY TEA will be donated directly to Audubon December 3 at Succop Society of Western Pennsylvania. AUDUBON NATURE STORE HOLIDAY SALE It doesn’t cost you anything! Visit December 3 at Beechwood smile.amazon.com and when prompted to DECORATE A MINI TREE choose a charity, type in “Audubon Society December 4 at Beechwood of Western Pennsylvania” to choose us as your charity. YULE LOG HIKE & CRAFT December 10 at Succop You must shop through PRESCHOOLERS: HOLIDAY FOR THE BIRDS smile.amazon.com (not just amazon.com) Audubon is working to tackle the problem of discarded fishing line. for us to get this benefit. December 8 at Beechwood & December 13 at Succop In this issue: HOLIDAY TEA Thank you! December 10 at Succop Fall/Winter 2016 STAFF OurJim Bonner, Executive Director Brian Shema, Operations Director BULLETIN While our focus is usually on topics in southwestern Pennsylvania, or at least on Chris Kubiak, Education Director VOLUME 81, NO. 3 issues impacting our flyway, we believe that program announced on the other side of Rachel Handel, Communications Director the world deserves attention. New Zealand has long had a significant problem with introduced animals. Some, like rabbits, were introduced on purpose for both food and sport. Others, like rats, were introduced accidentally, as hitchhikers on ships. And BEECHWOOD STAFF Table of Contents others, like stoats, were purposely released in an effort to reduce the out-of-control Gabrielle Hughes, Environmental Educator rabbit population. Scott Detwiler, Environmental Educator THIS AUDUBON VIEW 3 Roxanne Swann, Plant Center Coordinator DIRECTIONS TO OUR RESERVES 3 Regardless of how they arrived, these introduced species have caused tremendous problems Barbara Heck, Office Manager for the New Zealand ecosystem. The introduced predators, in particular, have taken a toll on the Craig Falatovich, Retail Manager AUDUBON TACKLES THE PROBLEM nation’s bird life. A number of native species have gone extinct and many more are currently Taylor Lanier, Store Associate OF DISCARDED FISHING LINE 4 endangered, including the island’s iconic Kiwi.

OUR SUPPORTERS 4 New Zealand has been successful in ridding invasive predators from a number of smaller islands, but native species on the SUCCOP NATURE two main islands continue to be under major threat. This summer, the government announced adoption of a major new initiative PARK STAFF OCTOBER–JANUARY EVENTS 5–8 with a very ambitious goal. Predator Free New Zealand plans to make the country predator-free by 2050, formally adopting a Davlin Smith, Center Coordinator target date to eradicate all pests that threaten New Zealand’s native birds. Ryan Stauffer, Environmental Educator NATURE STORE NEWS 9 Rich Allessi, Facility Steward In an interesting twist that we could only hope to see in America, the major opposition to the plan is that not enough money Penny Fischetti, Program Assistant MEMORIALS & HONORS 9 ($28 million) is being allocated to kick-start the program. The opposing political party is asking for a much greater investment by the government and a long-term funding plan. NEWS & PROJECT UPDATES 10 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Let’s hope that environmental issues some day get back to being a unifying issue in the United States—and that our political Gwilym A. Price III, President MEMBERSHIP & YEAR END GIVING 11 parties start arguing over which one wants to support them the most! Dr. Samuel Taylor, Vice President Diane Blanton, Treasurer HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS 12 Lisa Krieg, Secretary –Jim

TRUSTEES Dr. Anthony Bledsoe Audubon is planning to build Trails are open year-round, 7 days a week, dawn to dusk. Joy Borelli-Edwards and install containers like these to DIRECTIONS TO collect fishing line and keep it out Our Reserves Richard Ejzak of the environment where it could James M. Gockley harm birds and other animals. BEECHWOOD FARMS NATURE RESERVE: Hiller Hardie Take Route 28 north from Pittsburgh to Route 8 North/Butler exit. Turn Peggy King right at first traffic light on to Kittanning Road, which becomes Dorseyville Dr. John Marty Road. Travel 4.3 miles and Beechwood will be on your left. Virginia McQuown Dr. Brady Porter SUCCOP NATURE PARK: Take Route 8 North from Pittsburgh Doug Roth or South from Butler and turn on to West Airport Road. Once on West Airport Dan Sentz Road, Succop Nature Park’s driveway will be the first road on your left. Thomas C. Succop Take Route 28 North from Pittsburgh Penny Ward TODD NATURE RESERVE: The Bulletin is published four times a year by Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania, to the Butler/Freeport Exit 17. Turn right at Route 356 North, and then right at Robin Zacherl 614 Dorseyville Road, Pittsburgh PA 15238-1618. Address correspondence to Rachel Handel, Monroe Road. Travel about 2 miles, and make a right at Kepple Road. Travel 1.5 Editor. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject all copy. The Bulletin is received as a membership miles and Todd Nature Reserve will be on your right. Park in the lot and please sign TRUSTEE EMERITUS benefit. Nonmember subscriptions are $9.00 per year. For membership, subscriptions, or address James H. Hardie change, contact ASWP. Printed on 100% recycled paper. in at the informational kiosk at the cabin. Trail maps are located at the kiosk. STAFF OurJim Bonner, Executive Director Brian Shema, Operations Director BULLETIN While our focus is usually on topics in southwestern Pennsylvania, or at least on Chris Kubiak, Education Director VOLUME 81, NO. 3 issues impacting our flyway, we believe that program announced on the other side of Rachel Handel, Communications Director the world deserves attention. New Zealand has long had a significant problem with introduced animals. Some, like rabbits, were introduced on purpose for both food and sport. Others, like rats, were introduced accidentally, as hitchhikers on ships. And BEECHWOOD STAFF Table of Contents others, like stoats, were purposely released in an effort to reduce the out-of-control Gabrielle Hughes, Environmental Educator rabbit population. Scott Detwiler, Environmental Educator THIS AUDUBON VIEW 3 Roxanne Swann, Plant Center Coordinator DIRECTIONS TO OUR RESERVES 3 Regardless of how they arrived, these introduced species have caused tremendous problems Barbara Heck, Office Manager for the New Zealand ecosystem. The introduced predators, in particular, have taken a toll on the Craig Falatovich, Retail Manager AUDUBON TACKLES THE PROBLEM nation’s bird life. A number of native species have gone extinct and many more are currently Taylor Lanier, Store Associate OF DISCARDED FISHING LINE 4 endangered, including the island’s iconic Kiwi.

THE PROBLEM OF DISCARDED FISHING LINE REGISTER FOR PROGRAMS ONLINE AT ASWP.ORG OR BY CALLING (412) 963-6100.

Monofilament fishing line is an amazingly strong substance As part of their volunteer hours, these Master Birders will that can exist for a very long time in the environment. More survey the extent of the problem across our region and inspect than one million birds die each year from marine debris including several local fishing areas and establish “hot spots” where abandoned Special Events discarded fishing line, according to the National Oceanic and monofilament line problem is significant. From these established CREATURES OF THE NIGHT Calendars, cards, candles, decorations, ornaments, and more will be on sale throughout the day. Plus, don’t forget to enter your chance to Atmospheric Administration. hot spots, the Master Birders will choose locations for collection October 21 & 22 / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve win an ASWP gift basket. bins. They’ll build and install the bins and collect the discarded October 29 / Succop Nature Park 6:30, 7, or 7:30pm Start Time When animals get caught in monofilament line, it’s often a line. Ultimately, the line will be sent to The Berkley Conservation ASWP VOLUNTEER HOLIDAY LUNCHEON slow and often agonizing death. Starvation is the most common Institute who recycles the discarded line into new products. Delight in our annual autumn experience! Fireflies guide you on demise for these birds and animals as the line wraps around their our trails to encounter larger-than-life costumed nocturnal creatures. December 7, 11am / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve Hear stories from a Great Horned Owl, observe the acrobatics of neck or accumulates in the stomach, preventing the ingestion The most immediate outcome will be the removal of large the Flying Squirrel, go batty with Little Brown Bat, and more. Crafts Our volunteers are the heart of our organization! Volunteers, please of food. It can also immobilize the animals by entangling the amounts of discarded monofilament fishing line from the and refreshments provided. Come in costume for twice the fun. join us for our annual potluck luncheon that celebrates all of the amazing legs, securing them to stationary objects. environment, while significantly reducing threats to birds and This event takes place even if it’s raining. Registration required. talents you bring to ASWP. wildlife. The collection of line and the established recycling bins $6 member; $10 nonmember; under 2 is free. Audubon is taking the lead in addressing this serious by ASWP’s Master Birders will also help to raise awareness HOLIDAY TEA environmental issue locally by enlisting the help from our of the threat, foster stewardship of our local environment, and MEMBERS’ HOLIDAY SALE AT AUDUBON December 10, 11am & 3pm / Succop Nature Park NATURE STORE: ASWP MEMBERS’ EXCLUSIVE inaugural Master Birder class. Participants in this course commit help to save our local bird and animal populations. PRE-HOLIDAY SALE EVENT Succop Nature Park is beautifully decorated for the holidays! Join to volunteer a minimum of 50 hours to ASWP for at least us for tea, snacks, holiday carols, and a craft. Cost: $20 member; November 19, 9am–5pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve each of the two years following the end of the program. If you’d like to help with his project, by building bins or donating $25 nonmember. materials, please contact Chris Kubiak at (412) 963-6100. Attention ASWP Members! Start your holiday shopping with an extra 10% off at Audubon Nature Store! That’s 20% off on birdseed, KIDS’ CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT feeders, books, guides, journals, jewelry, personal accessories and toys as well as other items for nature lovers of all ages. Plus, get first dibs on Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve: Check aswp.org for time and date ASWP gratefully acknowledges the generous support received our 2016 selection of holiday gifts, greeting cards, ornaments, home January 7, 10am–12pm / Succop Nature Park from the following corporations, foundations and trust funds: decor and more during this one-day event! Not a member? Join today Kids and parents are invited to participate in a family-friendly version and receive the 20% discount as well as a copy of ASWP’s Western of the Pittsburgh Christmas Bird Count. Our naturalist will guide you. Pennsylvania Birding Trail Guide! Some restrictions apply. $50,000+ Redevelopment Authority The Garden Club of This event is appropriate for school-age and up. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Advance registration is required. Allegheny Regional of Allegheny County Allegheny County Free. Asset District The White Pine Fund Margaret Evans GIRLS & DOLLS HOLIDAY TEA The Heinz Endowments Tuten Foundation December 3, 11am & 3pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNTS Laurel Foundation PA American Water $5,000−$9,999 Bring your favorite little girl, along with her doll, for a tea party fit Call (412) 963-6100 to join one of our ASWP Christmas Bird Richard King Mellon Foundation Fox Chapel Garden Club PA Department of for a princess! We’ll have tea, snacks, holiday carols, and a craft. These Environmental Protection Counts! Please visit our website, www.aswp.org for dates, times, and Penn Township events fill quickly, so register early. $20 member; $25 nonmember. locations of these counts and others in our region. Commissioners Pittsburgh (includes Beechwood): TBD $10,000−$49,999 $500−$999 The Ahmanson Foundation Shannon Wilson AUDUBON NATURE STORE HOLIDAY SALE South Butler (includes Succop Nature Park): January 7 Charitable Fund Alice & Gibson The Double Eagle Foundation Buchanan Fund December 3, 9am–5pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve Buffalo Creek Valley (includes Todd Nature Reserve): December 17 The Florence $1,000−$4,999 Guyasuta Garden Club Shop Audubon Nature Store during this one-day sale for special Boyer Foundation savings on all things holiday! Dollar Bank Foundation Town & Country The Pittsburgh Foundation Garden Club 4 Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania 5 Search the landscape for resources for a cold winter’s night under a full Just a geologic instant ago, our state was alive with megafauna; we We will drill candle holes and level your log so that it will stay in Birding & Nature Hikes moon. Eat supper before you come! We’ll warm up around the campfire at will also attempt to understand why these creatures disappeared so proper position when you use it to decorate for the holidays. $6 members, BIRDS & MORE NATURALIST LED MORNING WALKS the end. This is an outside program and is appropriate for adults. $6 per quickly. $6 members, $10 non-members. $10 non-members. Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve: Every Wednesday at 9am; Free. member, $10 per nonmember. Succop Nature Park: Every Thursday 9 am; Free. (No walk November 24) THE SIBERIAN CRANE ICE FISHING October 25, 7pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve January 14, 10am–12pm / Succop Nature Park HARRISON HILLS PARK BIRD OUTING Preschool Programs Working with conservationists in Russia, China and Iran, John Try your hand at ice fishing with one of our educators on the Succop October 1, 8am–10am / Harrison Hills Park FLEDGLINGS: AGES 3-5 Canter discusses the life history and challenges that face the critically Nature Park pond. $6 per member, $10 per nonmember. Please note: this Join an Audubon naturalist in a birding excursion at Harrison Hills Oct 13, Nov 10, Dec 8, Jan 12 / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve endangered Siberian Crane. Free. program is weather dependent. Park. Free. Oct 11, Nov 8, Dec 13 / Succop Nature Park Program runs 10–11:15am WINTER BIRD FEEDING: FOOD, CITIZEN SCIENCE: FROG WATCH BIRDING 101 Give your 3-5 year old a head start on a lifetime of loving the outdoors. FEEDERS, WATER & SHELTER January 29, 2–4pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve &Succop Nature Park Fledglings programs incorporate stories, a walk, and activities to introduce November 5, 10am–12pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve November 5, 12–1pm / Audubon Nature Store at Beechwood Farms new and fun nature themes to young participants. Parent or caregiver Learn how to identify local frogs and submit your counts to the Frog Birdwatching is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States. must be present. $4 member; $6 nonmember. Winter winds and cold nights can be challenging for our fine Watch citizen science data collection. Also, watch the calendar in April Come learn the basics of birding and why watching our feathered friends October: Chattering Chipmunks December: Holiday for the Birds feathered friends. Come join ASWP’s Education Director, Chris for an evening session at the pond and certification opportunity. Kubiak, to learn what types of seed and feeders are best for feeding Appropriate for adults and interested youth. Free. is such a captivating hobby. We will cover binocular use and calibration, November: Leaf Man January: Sensational Snow choosing a field guide, and birding ethics. $6 per member, $10 per birds during the winter months. Chris will also discuss ways to nonmember. provide water and shelter for our resident birds. *Citizen Science programs are offered for free through a generous grant from Dominion Foundation. WINTER BIRDING WITH AUDUBON Hands-on Programs: WINTER BERRIES FOR BIRDS December 3, 12–2pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve Family, Lifelong Learning, Educator, & Citizen Science November 13, 2–4pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve December 3, 12–2pm / Succop Nature Park November 12, 2–4pm / Succop Nature Park PROJECT WET Scout Programs When winter sets in birds depend on plant resources to provide CUB & GIRL SCOUT BADGE DAY What birds are showing up this year at Beechwood and Succop? How October 1, 9am–3pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve do birds survive the cold of winter? Come explore with our naturalists critical nutrients as insects become scarce. We will discuss native plants October 8, 10am–12pm / Beechwood Farms &Succop Nature Park and observe what species of birds are to be discovered and some of Project WET is an interdisciplinary water education program that that help sustain birds during the harsh winter months. Participants will Choose your nature-related badge or activity! This program is for their strategies of survival. $6 per member, $10 per nonmember. provides K-12 teachers and other educators with hands-on classroom then be guided on a short hike to observe many of the plants discussed Cub Scouts and elementary Girl Scouts and is booked by group or den. activities through training workshops. The activities incorporate important in a natural setting. $6 members, $10 nonmembers. Contact Scott Detwiler at (412) 963-6100 to make your reservation. environmental lessons into all disciplines including the sciences, mathematics, WINTER WALKABOUT: SIGNS OF LIFE $7.50 per scout; one adult chaperone (free) required per den. (Other fine arts, social studies, language arts, and music. They are perfect for use CITIZEN SCIENCE: CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT & dates available by arrangement, subject to minimum fees.) January 14, 2–3:30pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve in formal and non-formal settings. Participants will receive the 600-page, PROJECT FEEDERWATCH TRAINING* January 15, 2–3:30pm / Succop Nature Park 64-lesson plan guide. $60. Act 48 hours available. December 3, 10am–12pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve BIRD STUDY MERIT BADGE Even in the midst of winter the forest is teeming with life! Join a December 3, 2–4pm / Succop Nature Park naturalist for the subtle and not-so-subtle signs of animal activity on NATURAL SKINCARE & November 12, 9am–3pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve the Reserve. Program is outside. Adults and families. $6 per member, MEDICINAL PLANTS WORKSHOP Learn or review the birds most likely to be seen for both Project $10 per nonmember. Feederwatch and Audubon’s annual Christmas Bird Counts. Beginners Earn your Boy Scout Bird Study Merit Badge. We will complete all the October 8, 2–4pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve welcome! Act 48 credit available. Classroom session and a short requirements. Bring your lunch and Blue Card. Be dressed for inside and October 9, 2–4pm / Succop Nature Park birding walk, conditions permitting. Appropriate for adults and outside in any weather. $25 per scout. For countless generations indigenous people used plants to cure and interested youth. Free. prevent illness. This workshop will explore the historical uses of native Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve plants in healing. We will then create a natural plant based skin care AudubonOWL PROWL at Night DECORATE A MINI TREE product for participants to take home. $12 Member; $15 nonmember. OctoberSuccop 21 Nature & 2 Park2 October 14 & November 19, 7pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve **The information in this workshop is meant to be educational only and not intended December 4, 2–4pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve October 15, November 5, 7pm / Todd Nature Reserve as medical advice or diagnoses for health problems. Get into the holiday spirit by decorating a mini tree using natural October 29 Learn about our local owls inside, then search for them on the trails. materials. $35 members, $40 nonmembers. Registration required 1 week Appropriate for all ages. $6 per member, $10 per nonmember. GLACIATION prior to workshop for gathering of materials. October 15, 10am–12pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve WOLF MOON HIKE October 8, 10am–12pm / Succop Nature Park YULE LOG HIKE & CRAFT Come in costume for more fun! January 21, 5:30–7pm / Succop Nature Park This program will help you imagine what Pennsylvania was like during December 10, 4–6pm / Succop Nature Park Take a guided evening walk outdoors and meet larger-than-life the last Ice Age. We will also explore unique glacial features and use costumed nocturnal creatures. The wolf moon is named for the lean, dead-of-winter times of We will take a hike out into the woods to gather natural materials to Google Earth to locate them. Register at aswp.org or by calling (412) 963-6100 January—but survival never takes time off. decorate a birch Yule log. 6 Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania 7 Search the landscape for resources for a cold winter’s night under a full Just a geologic instant ago, our state was alive with megafauna; we We will drill candle holes and level your log so that it will stay in Birding & Nature Hikes moon. Eat supper before you come! We’ll warm up around the campfire at will also attempt to understand why these creatures disappeared so proper position when you use it to decorate for the holidays. $6 members, BIRDS & MORE NATURALIST LED MORNING WALKS the end. This is an outside program and is appropriate for adults. $6 per quickly. $6 members, $10 non-members. $10 non-members. Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve: Every Wednesday at 9am; Free. member, $10 per nonmember. Succop Nature Park: Every Thursday 9 am; Free. (No walk November 24) THE SIBERIAN CRANE ICE FISHING October 25, 7pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve January 14, 10am–12pm / Succop Nature Park HARRISON HILLS PARK BIRD OUTING Preschool Programs Working with conservationists in Russia, China and Iran, John Try your hand at ice fishing with one of our educators on the Succop October 1, 8am–10am / Harrison Hills Park FLEDGLINGS: AGES 3-5 Canter discusses the life history and challenges that face the critically Nature Park pond. $6 per member, $10 per nonmember. Please note: this Join an Audubon naturalist in a birding excursion at Harrison Hills Oct 13, Nov 10, Dec 8, Jan 12 / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve endangered Siberian Crane. Free. program is weather dependent. Park. Free. Oct 11, Nov 8, Dec 13 / Succop Nature Park Program runs 10–11:15am WINTER BIRD FEEDING: FOOD, CITIZEN SCIENCE: FROG WATCH BIRDING 101 Give your 3-5 year old a head start on a lifetime of loving the outdoors. FEEDERS, WATER & SHELTER January 29, 2–4pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve &Succop Nature Park Fledglings programs incorporate stories, a walk, and activities to introduce November 5, 10am–12pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve November 5, 12–1pm / Audubon Nature Store at Beechwood Farms new and fun nature themes to young participants. Parent or caregiver Learn how to identify local frogs and submit your counts to the Frog Birdwatching is one of the fastest growing hobbies in the United States. must be present. $4 member; $6 nonmember. Winter winds and cold nights can be challenging for our fine Watch citizen science data collection. Also, watch the calendar in April Come learn the basics of birding and why watching our feathered friends October: Chattering Chipmunks December: Holiday for the Birds feathered friends. Come join ASWP’s Education Director, Chris for an evening session at the pond and certification opportunity. Kubiak, to learn what types of seed and feeders are best for feeding Appropriate for adults and interested youth. Free. is such a captivating hobby. We will cover binocular use and calibration, November: Leaf Man January: Sensational Snow choosing a field guide, and birding ethics. $6 per member, $10 per birds during the winter months. Chris will also discuss ways to nonmember. provide water and shelter for our resident birds. *Citizen Science programs are offered for free through a generous grant from Dominion Foundation. WINTER BIRDING WITH AUDUBON Hands-on Programs: WINTER BERRIES FOR BIRDS December 3, 12–2pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve Family, Lifelong Learning, Educator, & Citizen Science November 13, 2–4pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve December 3, 12–2pm / Succop Nature Park November 12, 2–4pm / Succop Nature Park PROJECT WET Scout Programs When winter sets in birds depend on plant resources to provide CUB & GIRL SCOUT BADGE DAY What birds are showing up this year at Beechwood and Succop? How October 1, 9am–3pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve do birds survive the cold of winter? Come explore with our naturalists critical nutrients as insects become scarce. We will discuss native plants October 8, 10am–12pm / Beechwood Farms &Succop Nature Park and observe what species of birds are to be discovered and some of Project WET is an interdisciplinary water education program that that help sustain birds during the harsh winter months. Participants will Choose your nature-related badge or activity! This program is for their strategies of survival. $6 per member, $10 per nonmember. provides K-12 teachers and other educators with hands-on classroom then be guided on a short hike to observe many of the plants discussed Cub Scouts and elementary Girl Scouts and is booked by group or den. activities through training workshops. The activities incorporate important in a natural setting. $6 members, $10 nonmembers. Contact Scott Detwiler at (412) 963-6100 to make your reservation. environmental lessons into all disciplines including the sciences, mathematics, WINTER WALKABOUT: SIGNS OF LIFE $7.50 per scout; one adult chaperone (free) required per den. (Other fine arts, social studies, language arts, and music. They are perfect for use CITIZEN SCIENCE: CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT & dates available by arrangement, subject to minimum fees.) January 14, 2–3:30pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve in formal and non-formal settings. Participants will receive the 600-page, PROJECT FEEDERWATCH TRAINING* January 15, 2–3:30pm / Succop Nature Park 64-lesson plan guide. $60. Act 48 hours available. December 3, 10am–12pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve BIRD STUDY MERIT BADGE Even in the midst of winter the forest is teeming with life! Join a December 3, 2–4pm / Succop Nature Park naturalist for the subtle and not-so-subtle signs of animal activity on NATURAL SKINCARE & November 12, 9am–3pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve the Reserve. Program is outside. Adults and families. $6 per member, MEDICINAL PLANTS WORKSHOP Learn or review the birds most likely to be seen for both Project $10 per nonmember. Feederwatch and Audubon’s annual Christmas Bird Counts. Beginners Earn your Boy Scout Bird Study Merit Badge. We will complete all the October 8, 2–4pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve welcome! Act 48 credit available. Classroom session and a short requirements. Bring your lunch and Blue Card. Be dressed for inside and October 9, 2–4pm / Succop Nature Park birding walk, conditions permitting. Appropriate for adults and outside in any weather. $25 per scout. For countless generations indigenous people used plants to cure and interested youth. Free. prevent illness. This workshop will explore the historical uses of native Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve plants in healing. We will then create a natural plant based skin care AudubonOWL PROWL at Night DECORATE A MINI TREE product for participants to take home. $12 Member; $15 nonmember. OctoberSuccop 21 Nature & 2 Park2 October 14 & November 19, 7pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve **The information in this workshop is meant to be educational only and not intended December 4, 2–4pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve October 15, November 5, 7pm / Todd Nature Reserve as medical advice or diagnoses for health problems. Get into the holiday spirit by decorating a mini tree using natural October 29 Learn about our local owls inside, then search for them on the trails. materials. $35 members, $40 nonmembers. Registration required 1 week Appropriate for all ages. $6 per member, $10 per nonmember. GLACIATION prior to workshop for gathering of materials. October 15, 10am–12pm / Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve WOLF MOON HIKE October 8, 10am–12pm / Succop Nature Park YULE LOG HIKE & CRAFT Come in costume for more fun! January 21, 5:30–7pm / Succop Nature Park This program will help you imagine what Pennsylvania was like during December 10, 4–6pm / Succop Nature Park Take a guided evening walk outdoors and meet larger-than-life the last Ice Age. We will also explore unique glacial features and use costumed nocturnal creatures. The wolf moon is named for the lean, dead-of-winter times of We will take a hike out into the woods to gather natural materials to Google Earth to locate them. Register at aswp.org or by calling (412) 963-6100 January—but survival never takes time off. decorate a birch Yule log. 6 Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania 7 FALL/WINTER 2016 AUDUBON NATURE STORE Chris Kubiak, Audubon’s education director, will be on hand Calendar of Events to show the types of seed and feeders that are best for birds during the winter months. Chris will also discuss ways to provide 8 Cub & Girl Scout Badge Day water and shelter for our resident birds. BeechwoodOCTOBER 9 Natural Skincare & Medicinal Plants Workshop 11 Fledglings Special Events 1 Project Wet MEMBERS’ HOLIDAY SALE 5 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 13, 20, 27 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike HOLIDAY SALE 8 Natural Skincare & Medicinal Plants Workshop 29 Creatures of the Night Join us on November 19 from 9am–5pm for a Members Only On December 3 from 9am–5pm, we’ll hold a one-day sale 8 Cub & Girl Scout Badge Day holiday shopping experience! Members take an extra 10% off at featuring special savings on all things holiday! Calendars, cards, NOVEMBER 12 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Audubon Nature Store, including birdseed, feeders, books, guides, candles, decorations, ornaments, and more will be on sale 13 Fledglings 3 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike journals, jewelry, personal accessories and toys as well as other 8 Fledglings throughout the day. And while you’re here, register for a chance 14 Owl Prowl items for nature lovers of all ages. You’ll also be the first to see 15 Glaciation 10 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike to win an ASWP gift basket. our 2016 selection of holiday gifts, greeting cards, ornaments, 19 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 12 Winter Berries for Birds 21–22 Creatures of the Night 17 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike home decor and more during this one-day event! If you join as a ONLINE FEATURES: FREE DELIVERY 25 The Siberian Crane member on that day, you’ll receive the 20% discount as well as TO SUCCOP NATURE PARK 26 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike DECEMBER a copy of ASWP’s Western Pennsylvania Birding Trail Guide! Visit our online store at aswp.org to order bird seed and feeders 1 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Some restrictions apply. to keep the birds happy all winter long. Simply place your order NOVEMBER 3 Girls & Dolls Holiday Tea and we’ll have your merchandise available at Succop Nature Park 2 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 3 Winter Birding With Audubon 5 Birding 101 3 Citizen Science: Christmas Bird Count & Project Feederwatch Training WINTER BIRD FEEDING: on the following Monday. Audubon Nature Store is located at FOOD, FEEDERS, WATER & SHELTER 5 Winter Bird Feeding: Food, Feeders, Water, & Shelter 8 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, 614 Dorseyville Road in 9 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 10 Holiday Tea Winter winds and cold nights can be challenging for our local Fox Chapel. 10 Fledglings 10 Yule Log Hike & Craft birds. So join us in the Audubon Nature on November 5 from 12 Scouts: Bird Study Merit Badge 13 Fledglings 12–1pm to learn what you can do to help them out. 13 Winter Berries for Birds 15, 22, 29 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 16 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 19 Members’ Holiday Sale at Audubon Nature Store JANUARY 19 Owl Prowl 5 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 23, 30 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 7 South Butler Christmas Bird Count 12 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Memorials & Honors DECEMBER 14 Ice Fishing 15 Winter Walkabout: Signs of Life JANE DYKE WENTLING RONALD MORRIS JOHN KURTO 3 Audubon Nature Store Holiday Sale Memorials (CONTINUED) (CONTINUED) Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Fornadel 3 Winter Birding With Audubon 17 Kids’ Christmas Bird Count DR. HERBERT LEVIT Sally & Robert Tarhi Nancy Brownell (Home is Where the Nest Is Campaign) 3 Citizen Science: Christmas Bird Count & Project Feederwatch Training 19 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Obrien Laurel Foundation Gloria & Donald Casey 21 Wolf Moon Hike Julie Marx CAROLYN ARMSTRONG 4 Decorate a Mini Tree Theresa & Edwin Scheetz HITESHEW 7 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 26 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Beatrice (Bibe) Schlesinger ALVIN MILLER PNC Data Center Engineers Jo Ann & Tom Succop 7 Audubon Volunteer Luncheon 29 Citizen Science: Frog Watch Larrimor’s (Carl Slesinger, Lisa Slesinger, A. CRAIG SUCCOP & Tom Michael, Ray Harney, Melissa Swenda) 8 Fledglings A. ERNEST SUCCOP II Gail & Andrew Schmitt Reverend Dr. Augustus & NORMA CRESSMAN Lisa Farabaugh 14, 21, 28 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Lyla Alcantara & Eric Marx Mrs. Succop Todd Nature Reserve Judith Campbell PAMELA LINHART Honors JANUARY OCTOBER RONALD MORRIS Betty & Linwood Butler BETSEY OWENS’ Lee & Richard Wilson 4, 11 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 15 Owl Prowl PAM LINHART VOLUNTEER SERVICE 12 Fledglings Dr. & Mrs. E. Reese Owens Barbara Todd ANNA MAE Susie and Jim Parker PATTERSON 14 Winter Walkabout: Signs of Life NOVEMBER Betty & Linwood Butler Cynthia & Bill Cooley Mr. & Mrs. Verne Koch Donna & Robert Neff CONSTANCE MORRISON 18, 25 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 5 Owl Prowl Gail Holtz JANE DYKE Friends of the Kerr 29 Citizen Science: Frog Watch Memorial Museum MARGARET KINGSTON DECEMBER WENTLING Laura Golensky & Anthony Seneca NANCY FALES 17 Buffalo Creek Valley Christmas Bird Count Dr. & Mrs. E. Reese Owens Judith Wentz Estate of Jane Dyke Wentling Nancy & Dan Fales Peggy Standish JOHN BIONDA Jane & Harry A. Thompson II Kathleen & Judson Morris Employees of Clean Air Engineering JOANNE & Succop Nature Park Leslie & Jim Bonner Ann Ostergaard DON LIGHTNER OCTOBER Churchill Garden Club Harrison Hills Park Tingle Barnes BRUCE URTAN HILL, JR. 6 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike OCTOBER Helen F. Mathieson Kim Belfield Sue & Russell Orkin 8 Glaciation 1 Bird Outing Stephanie &Thomas Flannery Jess & Betsey Owens Jeanie & Thomas Harbeck Jan & Bob Shoop (Home is Where the Nest Is Campaign) 8 Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania 9 FALL/WINTER 2016 AUDUBON NATURE STORE Chris Kubiak, Audubon’s education director, will be on hand Calendar of Events to show the types of seed and feeders that are best for birds during the winter months. Chris will also discuss ways to provide 8 Cub & Girl Scout Badge Day water and shelter for our resident birds. BeechwoodOCTOBER 9 Natural Skincare & Medicinal Plants Workshop 11 Fledglings Special Events 1 Project Wet MEMBERS’ HOLIDAY SALE 5 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 13, 20, 27 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike HOLIDAY SALE 8 Natural Skincare & Medicinal Plants Workshop 29 Creatures of the Night Join us on November 19 from 9am–5pm for a Members Only On December 3 from 9am–5pm, we’ll hold a one-day sale 8 Cub & Girl Scout Badge Day holiday shopping experience! Members take an extra 10% off at featuring special savings on all things holiday! Calendars, cards, NOVEMBER 12 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Audubon Nature Store, including birdseed, feeders, books, guides, candles, decorations, ornaments, and more will be on sale 13 Fledglings 3 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike journals, jewelry, personal accessories and toys as well as other 8 Fledglings throughout the day. And while you’re here, register for a chance 14 Owl Prowl items for nature lovers of all ages. You’ll also be the first to see 15 Glaciation 10 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike to win an ASWP gift basket. our 2016 selection of holiday gifts, greeting cards, ornaments, 19 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 12 Winter Berries for Birds 21–22 Creatures of the Night 17 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike home decor and more during this one-day event! If you join as a ONLINE FEATURES: FREE DELIVERY 25 The Siberian Crane member on that day, you’ll receive the 20% discount as well as TO SUCCOP NATURE PARK 26 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike DECEMBER a copy of ASWP’s Western Pennsylvania Birding Trail Guide! Visit our online store at aswp.org to order bird seed and feeders 1 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Some restrictions apply. to keep the birds happy all winter long. Simply place your order NOVEMBER 3 Girls & Dolls Holiday Tea and we’ll have your merchandise available at Succop Nature Park 2 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 3 Winter Birding With Audubon 5 Birding 101 3 Citizen Science: Christmas Bird Count & Project Feederwatch Training WINTER BIRD FEEDING: on the following Monday. Audubon Nature Store is located at FOOD, FEEDERS, WATER & SHELTER 5 Winter Bird Feeding: Food, Feeders, Water, & Shelter 8 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, 614 Dorseyville Road in 9 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 10 Holiday Tea Winter winds and cold nights can be challenging for our local Fox Chapel. 10 Fledglings 10 Yule Log Hike & Craft birds. So join us in the Audubon Nature on November 5 from 12 Scouts: Bird Study Merit Badge 13 Fledglings 12–1pm to learn what you can do to help them out. 13 Winter Berries for Birds 15, 22, 29 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 16 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 19 Members’ Holiday Sale at Audubon Nature Store JANUARY 19 Owl Prowl 5 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 23, 30 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 7 South Butler Christmas Bird Count 12 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Memorials & Honors DECEMBER 14 Ice Fishing 15 Winter Walkabout: Signs of Life JANE DYKE WENTLING RONALD MORRIS JOHN KURTO 3 Audubon Nature Store Holiday Sale Memorials (CONTINUED) (CONTINUED) Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Fornadel 3 Winter Birding With Audubon 17 Kids’ Christmas Bird Count DR. HERBERT LEVIT Sally & Robert Tarhi Nancy Brownell (Home is Where the Nest Is Campaign) 3 Citizen Science: Christmas Bird Count & Project Feederwatch Training 19 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Obrien Laurel Foundation Gloria & Donald Casey 21 Wolf Moon Hike Julie Marx CAROLYN ARMSTRONG 4 Decorate a Mini Tree Theresa & Edwin Scheetz HITESHEW 7 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 26 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Beatrice (Bibe) Schlesinger ALVIN MILLER PNC Data Center Engineers Jo Ann & Tom Succop 7 Audubon Volunteer Luncheon 29 Citizen Science: Frog Watch Larrimor’s (Carl Slesinger, Lisa Slesinger, A. CRAIG SUCCOP & Tom Michael, Ray Harney, Melissa Swenda) 8 Fledglings A. ERNEST SUCCOP II Gail & Andrew Schmitt Reverend Dr. Augustus & NORMA CRESSMAN Lisa Farabaugh 14, 21, 28 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike Lyla Alcantara & Eric Marx Mrs. Succop Todd Nature Reserve Judith Campbell PAMELA LINHART Honors JANUARY OCTOBER RONALD MORRIS Betty & Linwood Butler BETSEY OWENS’ Lee & Richard Wilson 4, 11 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 15 Owl Prowl PAM LINHART VOLUNTEER SERVICE 12 Fledglings Dr. & Mrs. E. Reese Owens Barbara Todd ANNA MAE Susie and Jim Parker PATTERSON 14 Winter Walkabout: Signs of Life NOVEMBER Betty & Linwood Butler Cynthia & Bill Cooley Mr. & Mrs. Verne Koch Donna & Robert Neff CONSTANCE MORRISON 18, 25 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike 5 Owl Prowl Gail Holtz JANE DYKE Friends of the Kerr 29 Citizen Science: Frog Watch Memorial Museum MARGARET KINGSTON DECEMBER WENTLING Laura Golensky & Anthony Seneca NANCY FALES 17 Buffalo Creek Valley Christmas Bird Count Dr. & Mrs. E. Reese Owens Judith Wentz Estate of Jane Dyke Wentling Nancy & Dan Fales Peggy Standish JOHN BIONDA Jane & Harry A. Thompson II Kathleen & Judson Morris Employees of Clean Air Engineering JOANNE & Succop Nature Park Leslie & Jim Bonner Ann Ostergaard DON LIGHTNER OCTOBER Churchill Garden Club Harrison Hills Park Tingle Barnes BRUCE URTAN HILL, JR. 6 Birds & More Naturalist Led Hike OCTOBER Helen F. Mathieson Kim Belfield Sue & Russell Orkin 8 Glaciation 1 Bird Outing Stephanie &Thomas Flannery Jess & Betsey Owens Jeanie & Thomas Harbeck Jan & Bob Shoop (Home is Where the Nest Is Campaign) 8 Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania 9 Your Name: AN AUDUBON E-mail: MEMBERSHIP MAKES Address: City, State, Zip: News and Phone: A Great Gift! Employer (for matching gifts): PROGRAM UPDATES Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania (ASWP) is a nonprofit organization supported in large part through IF THIS IS A GIFT MEMBERSHIP, PLEASE COMPLETE CHIMNEY SWIFT TOWERS REDUCING EMISSIONS WITH membership dues. You can also join or renew your ABOVE SECTION & THE FOLLOWING: IN ALLEGHENY COUNTY PARKS OUR NATURAL GAS POWERED CARS membership at www.aswp.org. Recipient’s Name: As we previously reported, Audubon continues to install As we finish what will be the hottest year globally on record, Address: Chimney Swift Towers in Allegheny County Parks. Thanks to we know that the reality of climate change is here. What is MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS: 10% Discount on Nature Store City, State, Zip: Allegheny County Parks Foundation, The Pittsburgh Foundation, Audubon doing to combat the problem? Audubon continues to Purchases & Bird Seed, Subscription to Bulletin Newsletter, Phone: and the Allegheny County Parks, Audubon is in the process of lead by example. In the past year we purchased two compressed Library & Teacher Resource Center Lending Privileges, Tuition NOTE: Gift memberships will be sent directly to the recipient. installing 100 Chimney Swift Towers in nine county parks. The natural gas (CNG) Honda Civics thanks to generous grants from Discounts & Advance Notice on Education Programs, Invitations Chimney Swift Towers provide critical nesting and roosting EQT and Honda North. These vehicles have been used for driving to Nature Store Open Houses & Special Events, and a 100% How to list your recognition on the recipient note: structures for swifts in our area—they act as faux chimneys, between our properties and to offsite educational programming. Good Feeling for Supporting Environmental Education. which the birds use to raise young and to roost at night. One benefit of natural gas is that it produces lower carbon New or Renewal Membership Gift Membership PAYMENT BY: The first tower was installed in May 2016. Since then we dioxide (CO2) emissions per vehicle mile traveled compared to Individual: $35 Conservationist: $500 Check Enclosed Credit Card have installed 22 towers in North Park, one in Harrison Hills gasoline. The Energy Information Administration estimates that Household: $50 Steward: $1,000 Credit Card No.: Park, and 19 in South Park. We are now turning our attention CNG cars produce, on average, 27.5% less CO2 emissions than Naturalist: $100 Club Level: $100 Expiration Date: to Boyce Park and Hartwood Acres. Each of these parks will get diesel or gasoline car with minimal air pollution, or “smog.” A Ecologist: $250 eight towers. Most towers contain a four-sided kiosk which single CNG truck will offset CO2 emissions equivalent to 300 A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from features educational graphics that provide information on the passenger cars over its lifetime. Go online now or mail this form with payment to: the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free within Pennsylvania importance of Chimney Swifts, and the reason for the towers. ASWP Membership, 614 Dorseyville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238. 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. The towers have been met with interest and excitement From July 2015 to August 2016, ASWP educators and staff by park users. logged a total of 6,854 miles in our two CNG Honda Civics. A comparable gasoline powered Civic would have emitted 1.55 metric tons of CO2 into the atmosphere with those number of YOUR TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATION TO ASWP NEW BOARD MEMBERS & miles. When you do the math, our CNG vehicles saved 0.43 ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD WINNERS metric tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere! Thanks to Connects People to Birds & Nature As the leaves begin to change and there’s a slight chill to the air, it’s hard to Three new members officially joined ASWP’s board the generosity of EQT and Honda North, Audubon is well on believe that yet another year is winding down. With 2017 just right around the of directors during our annual members banquet on July 14, its way to becoming carbon neutral and doing our part to corner, there is no better time than now to make a donation to Audubon Society 2016: James M. Gockley, Hiller Hardie, and Robin Zacherl. mitigate our impact on the environment. of Western Pennsylvania! Your end-of-the-year support makes a big difference in That same evening we presented our environmental awards Audubon’s success. Not only do you get the satisfaction knowing that you help to: Peggy Perdue (Betty Abbott Excellence In Teaching Award), ASWP—but your donation, when received by December 31, can also be Three Rivers Birding Club (Trustee Award Winner), and Doug JOIN THE WESTERN deducted from your 2016 income taxes. Gross of the Pennsylvania Game Commission (W. E. Clyde PENNSYLVANIA MUSHROOM Todd Award Winner). CLUB FOR MEETINGS! This is a great way to help us connect the people of southwestern Pennsylvania to birds and nature while reducing your taxes at the same time. In addition to the Join us at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve on The winners of the Beulah Frey Scholarship were: Juliana October 18 and November 15. Meetings start at 7pm. feel-good knowledge that you’re supporting Western Pennsylvania’s premier Sandford, Jacob Seiler, and Harrison Smith. environmental organization, consider the tax write-off to be our holiday gift October: Photo Contest Winners & Election of Officers to you! November: Pot Luck Dinner & Member Photos Check out our website, www.aswp.org, to see photos from the annual members banquet. Please contact our Development Office at (412) 963-6100 for further information. 10 Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania 11 Your Name: AN AUDUBON E-mail: MEMBERSHIP MAKES Address: City, State, Zip: News and Phone: A Great Gift! Employer (for matching gifts): PROGRAM UPDATES Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania (ASWP) is a nonprofit organization supported in large part through IF THIS IS A GIFT MEMBERSHIP, PLEASE COMPLETE CHIMNEY SWIFT TOWERS REDUCING EMISSIONS WITH membership dues. You can also join or renew your ABOVE SECTION & THE FOLLOWING: IN ALLEGHENY COUNTY PARKS OUR NATURAL GAS POWERED CARS membership at www.aswp.org. Recipient’s Name: As we previously reported, Audubon continues to install As we finish what will be the hottest year globally on record, Address: Chimney Swift Towers in Allegheny County Parks. Thanks to we know that the reality of climate change is here. What is MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS: 10% Discount on Nature Store City, State, Zip: Allegheny County Parks Foundation, The Pittsburgh Foundation, Audubon doing to combat the problem? Audubon continues to Purchases & Bird Seed, Subscription to Bulletin Newsletter, Phone: and the Allegheny County Parks, Audubon is in the process of lead by example. In the past year we purchased two compressed Library & Teacher Resource Center Lending Privileges, Tuition NOTE: Gift memberships will be sent directly to the recipient. installing 100 Chimney Swift Towers in nine county parks. The natural gas (CNG) Honda Civics thanks to generous grants from Discounts & Advance Notice on Education Programs, Invitations Chimney Swift Towers provide critical nesting and roosting EQT and Honda North. These vehicles have been used for driving to Nature Store Open Houses & Special Events, and a 100% How to list your recognition on the recipient note: structures for swifts in our area—they act as faux chimneys, between our properties and to offsite educational programming. Good Feeling for Supporting Environmental Education. which the birds use to raise young and to roost at night. One benefit of natural gas is that it produces lower carbon New or Renewal Membership Gift Membership PAYMENT BY: The first tower was installed in May 2016. Since then we dioxide (CO2) emissions per vehicle mile traveled compared to Individual: $35 Conservationist: $500 Check Enclosed Credit Card have installed 22 towers in North Park, one in Harrison Hills gasoline. The Energy Information Administration estimates that Household: $50 Steward: $1,000 Credit Card No.: Park, and 19 in South Park. We are now turning our attention CNG cars produce, on average, 27.5% less CO2 emissions than Naturalist: $100 Club Level: $100 Expiration Date: to Boyce Park and Hartwood Acres. Each of these parks will get diesel or gasoline car with minimal air pollution, or “smog.” A Ecologist: $250 eight towers. Most towers contain a four-sided kiosk which single CNG truck will offset CO2 emissions equivalent to 300 A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from features educational graphics that provide information on the passenger cars over its lifetime. Go online now or mail this form with payment to: the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free within Pennsylvania importance of Chimney Swifts, and the reason for the towers. ASWP Membership, 614 Dorseyville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238. 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. The towers have been met with interest and excitement From July 2015 to August 2016, ASWP educators and staff by park users. logged a total of 6,854 miles in our two CNG Honda Civics. A comparable gasoline powered Civic would have emitted 1.55 metric tons of CO2 into the atmosphere with those number of YOUR TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATION TO ASWP NEW BOARD MEMBERS & miles. When you do the math, our CNG vehicles saved 0.43 ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD WINNERS metric tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere! Thanks to Connects People to Birds & Nature As the leaves begin to change and there’s a slight chill to the air, it’s hard to Three new members officially joined ASWP’s board the generosity of EQT and Honda North, Audubon is well on believe that yet another year is winding down. With 2017 just right around the of directors during our annual members banquet on July 14, its way to becoming carbon neutral and doing our part to corner, there is no better time than now to make a donation to Audubon Society 2016: James M. Gockley, Hiller Hardie, and Robin Zacherl. mitigate our impact on the environment. of Western Pennsylvania! Your end-of-the-year support makes a big difference in That same evening we presented our environmental awards Audubon’s success. Not only do you get the satisfaction knowing that you help to: Peggy Perdue (Betty Abbott Excellence In Teaching Award), ASWP—but your donation, when received by December 31, can also be Three Rivers Birding Club (Trustee Award Winner), and Doug JOIN THE WESTERN deducted from your 2016 income taxes. Gross of the Pennsylvania Game Commission (W. E. Clyde PENNSYLVANIA MUSHROOM Todd Award Winner). CLUB FOR MEETINGS! This is a great way to help us connect the people of southwestern Pennsylvania to birds and nature while reducing your taxes at the same time. In addition to the Join us at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve on The winners of the Beulah Frey Scholarship were: Juliana October 18 and November 15. Meetings start at 7pm. feel-good knowledge that you’re supporting Western Pennsylvania’s premier Sandford, Jacob Seiler, and Harrison Smith. environmental organization, consider the tax write-off to be our holiday gift October: Photo Contest Winners & Election of Officers to you! November: Pot Luck Dinner & Member Photos Check out our website, www.aswp.org, to see photos from the annual members banquet. Please contact our Development Office at (412) 963-6100 for further information. 10 Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania 11 614 DORSEYVILLE ROAD PITTSBURGH, PA 15238 BULLETIN VOLUME 81, NO. 3